Hydro Boost Enzyme Powder Wash
Hydro Boost Enzyme Powder Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A cutting-edge powder-to-foam cleanser that combines gentle enzymatic exfoliation with probiotic-powered hydration. Infused with papain, bromelain, PHA, and 5 fermented probiotics, this hypoallergenic formula buffs away dead skin cells, reduces blackheads, and strengthens your skin barrier—all without irritation.
Patented Triple Enzyme Complex
Papain, bromelain, and protease work synergistically to gently dissolve dead skin cells and sebum without harsh physical scrubbing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented Triple Enzyme Complex
Papain, bromelain, and protease work synergistically to gently dissolve dead skin cells and sebum without harsh physical scrubbing.
5 Probiotics Ferment Blend
Lactococcus, Saccharomyces, Lactobacillus, and Bifida ferments strengthen skin barrier and support healthy microbiome.
Rice Enziotics Complex
Rice extract combined with mung bean powder provides gentle physical exfoliation and brightening benefits.
PHA (Gluconolactone)
Gentle polyhydroxy acid exfoliates without increasing sun sensitivity—perfect for sensitive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. PHA and enzymes are considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains fermented ingredients (Saccharomyces, Bifida, Lactobacillus) which may trigger fungal acne in susceptible individuals. Patch test recommended.
No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. Suitable for acne-prone skin with non-fungal causes.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. Free from SLS, parabens, artificial fragrances, and alcohol.
Contains papaya enzyme (papain). Those with latex or tropical fruit allergies should patch test first.
PHA (gluconolactone) does not increase sun sensitivity unlike AHAs. Safe for daytime use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPapain (Papaya Enzyme)Proven
A proteolytic enzyme from papaya that gently breaks down the protein bonds holding dead skin cells together, providing chemical exfoliation without physical irritation.
- Function: Enzymatic exfoliation, dissolves keratin plugs and sebum
- Benefits: Removes dead cells, unclogs pores, reduces blackheads
- Research: Studies show papain effectively reduces acne inflammation and improves skin texture
Bromelain (Pineapple Enzyme)Proven
Another powerful proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple that works alongside papain to enhance exfoliation efficacy.
- Function: Protein-dissolving enzyme for gentle exfoliation
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory properties, promotes cell turnover
- Synergy: Combined with papain for enhanced dead skin removal
Gluconolactone (PHA)Proven
A polyhydroxy acid that provides gentle exfoliation benefits similar to AHAs but with larger molecular size, making it gentler and non-photosensitizing.
- Concentration: Undisclosed (appears mid-formula)
- Benefits: Exfoliates, hydrates, antioxidant protection
- Research: 2004 study showed gluconolactone prevents UV damage without increasing sun sensitivity
5 Probiotics Ferment ComplexPromising
A blend of Lactococcus, Saccharomyces, Lactobacillus, and Bifida ferment lysates that support skin barrier function and microbiome health.
- Components: Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Bifida Ferment Filtrate, Bifida Ferment Lysate
- Benefits: Strengthens skin barrier, promotes cell renewal, antimicrobial peptide production
- Research: In-vitro studies show LFL stimulates proteins for skin barrier integrity and thickness
Mung Bean Powder NaturalTraditional
Traditional Asian ingredient rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that provides mild physical exfoliation and soothing benefits.
- Benefits: Gentle physical exfoliation, antioxidant protection
- Contains: Flavonoids, polyphenols, caffeic acid
- Traditional Use: Long history in Korean beauty for purifying and refining skin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) ExtractPromising
Rice extract provides brightening, moisturizing, and mild exfoliating properties—a staple in Asian skincare for centuries.
- Benefits: Brightening, anti-inflammatory, gentle exfoliation
- Components: Rich in vitamins B and E, amino acids
- Heritage: Used in Asian beauty rituals for over 1,000 years
Allantoin + Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateProven
A soothing duo that calms irritation, reduces redness, and supports skin healing—balancing the exfoliating actives.
- Allantoin: Promotes wound healing, softens skin, anti-irritant
- Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: Licorice-derived anti-inflammatory, sebum regulating
- Purpose: Counteracts potential irritation from enzymatic exfoliation
19 ingredients
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Potassium Myristate, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Mannitol, Papain, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Bromelain, Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder, Gluconolactone, Water, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Bifida Ferment Filtrate, Bifida Ferment Lysate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Protease
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as second cleanser in double cleansing routine (PM) or as sole cleanser (AM). Can be used daily for most skin types, or 2-3x weekly for sensitive skin.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense Powder
Pour approximately half a teaspoon of powder into the palm of your dry hand.
Create Foam
Add a small amount of warm water and rub hands together until a rich, creamy foam forms.
Apply & Massage
Gently massage the foam onto damp face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry and follow with toner and rest of routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without irritation
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- Your skin looks dull and needs brightening
- You prefer fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products
- You want a travel-friendly cleanser (powder form)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have diagnosed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're allergic to papaya, pineapple, or latex
- You prefer traditional foam or gel cleansers
- You want a one-step makeup-removing cleanser
- You need heavy-duty exfoliation (consider AHAs instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEnzymes effectively dissolve excess sebum and unclog pores. Lightweight formula won't add greasiness.
Gentle enough for dry skin. Doesn't strip moisture like harsh cleansers. Follow with hydrating products.
Perfect balance—controls T-zone oiliness while being gentle on drier cheeks.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Start with 2-3x weekly use. Contains soothing allantoin and licorice.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Great for non-fungal acne. Caution: ferments may trigger fungal acne.
Gentle exfoliation promotes cell turnover without irritation. Probiotic blend supports skin renewal.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Smoothness & Brightness
Skin feels immediately softer and looks more radiant. No tightness or dryness after rinsing.
57.52% noticed improved exfoliationVisible Pore Improvement
Blackheads become less noticeable. Skin texture starts evening out. Some may experience initial purging.
19.21% improved blackheads after one useClearer, More Refined Complexion
Whiteheads reduced. Pores appear minimized. Overall skin tone looks brighter and more even.
30.98% improved whiteheadsStrengthened Skin Barrier
Probiotic benefits become apparent. Skin is more resilient, balanced, and maintains healthy glow.
8.46% improved skin textureRatings by platform
380+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Creates luxurious, creamy foam that feels gentle
- No tightness or dryness after cleansing
- Visible improvement in blackheads and texture
- Travel-friendly powder format (no liquid restrictions)
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Long-lasting—small amount goes a long way
- Leaves skin bright and glowing
- Great value for the size (75g)
Criticized
- Learning curve for powder-to-foam technique
- Contains ferments (concern for fungal acne)
- May cause initial purging period
- Need to keep powder dry between uses
- Not effective for removing heavy makeup alone
- Papain may irritate those with fruit allergies
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar papain enzyme base with corn starch. Contains SLS (TIRTIR is SLS-free). pH 5.5. 70g size. No probiotics but effective basic formula.
Japanese enzyme powder with protease and lipase. Individual capsules (32 pcs). More travel-friendly packaging but less product overall. J-Beauty cult favorite.
Green tea based formula with papain. Similar enzyme action but different supporting ingredients. No ferments (fungal acne safe alternative).
Luxury Japanese-inspired formula with rice bran and papaya enzymes. Much higher price point but ultra-refined texture. Available in multiple versions for different skin types.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDETIRTIR Hydro Boost
Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Enzymes maintain efficacy when kept dry.
Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture. Keep lid tightly closed. Avoid storing in humid bathroom.
Twist-cap jar with inner seal. Designed to protect powder from moisture exposure.
Yes! Powder form means no liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage. Perfect for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes! This product is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens—the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The enzymes (papain, bromelain) and PHA (gluconolactone) are topical, gentle exfoliants that don't pose systemic risks. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Caution advised. This product contains 5 fermented probiotic ingredients (Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Bifida Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, etc.) which may potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne in susceptible individuals. While these are lysates/filtrates (not live yeast), some people with malassezia sensitivity report issues with fermented ingredients. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash which is ferment-free.
Yes, but with timing considerations. Since this cleanser contains PHA and enzymes (mild exfoliants), avoid using it in the same routine as leave-on AHAs, BHAs, or retinol to prevent over-exfoliation. Best practice: Use this cleanser in the morning, and save your retinol/acids for evening. Or alternate days. If using vitamin C serum, wait a few minutes after cleansing before application. Listen to your skin—if you experience irritation, reduce frequency of use.
This cleanser works well for most skin types and is particularly excellent for: oily skin (controls sebum, unclogs pores), combination skin (balances different zones), and mature skin (gentle cell turnover). It's also suitable for dry skin (doesn't strip moisture) and sensitive skin (hypoallergenic, fragrance-free). The only exception: those with diagnosed fungal acne should use caution due to fermented ingredients.
Many users notice immediate benefits—softer, brighter skin after the first use. Clinical testing shows 57.52% improvement in skin exfoliation after one use. For blackhead and texture improvements, expect to see noticeable changes within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Full benefits including strengthened skin barrier typically appear after 6-8 weeks. Note: Some users experience initial purging (small breakouts) during the first 1-2 weeks as the enzymes clear clogged pores.
Use as your second cleanser in a double-cleansing routine (after oil cleanser in PM), or as your sole cleanser in the morning. The order is: (PM) Oil Cleanser → TIRTIR Enzyme Powder → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer. (AM) TIRTIR Enzyme Powder → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. Can be used daily for most skin types, or 2-3 times weekly for sensitive skin.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It doesn't contain heavy oils, silicones, or known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the enzymatic action actively helps unclog pores by dissolving sebum and dead skin buildup. Clinical testing showed 19.21% improvement in blackheads after just one use. However, as with any product, individual reactions vary—discontinue if you experience unusual breakouts.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). With typical use (half teaspoon per wash, 1-2x daily), the 75g jar should last approximately 2-3 months. To maximize shelf life, always keep the powder dry—avoid getting water inside the jar, close the lid tightly after each use, and store in a cool, dry place away from bathroom humidity.
Verdict: The TIRTIR Hydro Boost Enzyme Powder Wash is an impressive K-beauty cleanser that delivers on its promises of gentle exfoliation and brightening. The combination of three enzymes, PHA, and five probiotics offers a sophisticated approach to daily cleansing that rivals more expensive alternatives. The sulfate-free, fragrance-free formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin, while clinical results back up claims of blackhead and texture improvement. The only considerations are the fermented ingredients (potential fungal acne trigger) and the learning curve for powder-to-foam technique. At its price point with 75g of product, it offers excellent value compared to competitors like Tatcha or Suisai. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective daily exfoliating cleanser.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Zea Mays Starch
Absorbent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Myristate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mannitol
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Humectant, Binding Agent, Binding, Flavoring Agent, Moisturising
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Papain
Skin Conditioning
|
|